TESS BENJAMIN is an emerging Nigerian fashion brand that everyone should know. It was founded by the delectable Theresa Ikekpeazu in 2019. This Enugu state born is a talent to look out for. Since the launch of her brand, she has been giving us a lot of chic vibes and exceptional designs. She has featured in notable runways like “Africa Fashion Week Nigeria” in 2019. She has also dressed celebrities and personalities like Laurie Idahosa, Mercy Johnson, Shade Ladipo, Liade Bakare and Debby Felix Eloghosa. Her designs are fresh, modern and classy.
We had a chat with Theresa to get to the gist on her and her brand.
See our interview with the beautiful designer below:
Tell us your name and the name of your brand.
Theresa: My name is Theresa Uju Ikekpeazu and the name of my brand is TESS BENJAMIN
What is your background in fashion?
Theresa: I decided to go to fashion school after I had worked as a production manager for a Fashion brand. I made that decision to go to a fashion school because while working as a production manager I fell in love with fashion even more and really wanted to know the craft.
Did you study fashion because it was something you have always wanted to do?
Theresa: Yes I studied it and it’s something I have always wanted to do but I was indecisive at some point in my life until I worked for that fashion brand.
Tell us about the “Tess Benjamin” Brand
Theresa: TESS BENJAMIN is a chic modern-day fashion label that specialises in both ready to wear and custom made apparels. It’s for a modern-day woman who wants to look her very best on any occasion at all times in premium quality pieces that fits suitably to the unique form and shape of the woman. Our creations are made with the richest of fabrics and tailored to perfection. The brand is built with a focus on quality, freshness, versatility, bright subtle colours, and timeless pieces.
What makes your brand different from other fashion brands out there?
Theresa: I believe what makes TESS BENJAMIN different from other brands out there is our attention to Quality. We do not compromise on that no matter what. High Quality from the different levels of fabrics we use, to the sewing, to fit etc. We believe so much in Quality
Who is/are your role model/s in this business?
Theresa: Well, I would say Diane von Furstenberg & Mai Atafo. Although I also look up to many of them in the industry. I learn a lot from all of my predecessors both Nigerian designers and international designers. They are really good
Where do you see this brand in the next 5 years?
Theresa: I see TESS BENJAMIN as a global brand by God’s special grace. I see us having branches for our Ready to wear pieces in major cities in Nigeria and even abroad by God’s Special Grace.
I see TESS BENJAMIN as a well recognized and sort after fashion brand by everyone both locally and internationally in JESUS NAME Amen.
What advice will you give someone who is just starting out in this business?
Theresa: Well, the advice I would give anyone starting out in this business is, First of all, Be patient with the growth. The growth in this Business doesn’t come immediately, it takes a lot of hard work, consistency and tolerance.
Also, they should make sure they are going into this business for the right reasons such as Passion. Have a long term goal and be sure it’s really what they want to do.
They should seek advice from the right people if need be but not pessimistic people. Most importantly follow their hearts. Seek God’s face. Pray pray pray
Say a word to our FFA readers
Theresa: FFA readers please look out for this brand, support us, buy our pieces, follow us on our social media platforms and most importantly believe in our Brand cause we have a lot of great things to offer and we love and appreciate everyone reading and following Fashions Finest Africa.
You can contact Tess Benjamin with the following details
Brand Name: Tess Benjamin Contact No : 08097132144 Address: 34 Olorunlogbon street Anthony village Social Media Handles Instagram: @tessbenjamin_ng Twitter: @tessbenjamin_tb Facebook: @tessbenjamin07 We would say Theresa Ihekpazu is doing so well and Tess Benjamin is going places. Her designs are very beautiful and one that would definitely stand you out. See some of her amazing designs below: